Instagram, the popular mobile social network for sharing photos, can be fun and addictive. However, unlike Facebook or Twitter, Instagram doesn't have an official desktop presence to go along with its mobile app. If you're already on your computer, picking up your Android or iOS device just to check your Instagram feed is less than ideal.

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Nicole Cozma recently went over using Extagram, a Web site that allows you to browse Instagram on the Web. Another desktop solution is a Chrome extension that allows you to check your feed directly from the Chrome browser. Here's how to set up and use Instagram for Chrome:

Set up Instagram for Chrome
After installing Instagram for Chrome, left-click on the button that appears in the Chrome toolbar. Next, let Instagram for Chrome access your Instagram account. You'll need to be logged in to your Instagram account on the Web to allow authorization.

Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

Use Instagram for Chrome
To use Instagram for Chrome, left-click on the button from the toolbar. You can scroll through your feed, like photos, and leave comments, just like on the Instagram mobile app. You can also click on the three dots in the upper left-hand corner for more browsing options.

Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

Delete Instagram for Chrome and revoke access
If you decide you don't like the extension, delete it from Chrome and revoke its access to your account. To revoke access, go to the Manage Applications section from your Instagram account on the Web. Find Instagram for Chrome, then click on the Revoke Access button.

Screenshot by Ed Rhee/CNET

That's it. Now you can quickly check your Instagram feed from your desktop, then get back to work or browsing.

About the author

Ed Rhee, a freelance writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is an IT veteran turned stay-at-home-dad of two girls. He focuses on Android devices and applications while maintaining a review blog at techdadreview.com.
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